PhD position in Molecular Biology & Biophysics in Zürich

The Wieczorek Group at the Institute of Molecular Biology & Biophysics at ETH Zurich investigates the physical principles underlying the self-assembly of complex intracellular structures from biomolecules. The group uses the microtubule cytoskeleton as a model system. We apply state-of-the-art methods in structural biology, in vitro biochemical reconstitutions, and single-molecule biophysics to understand how diverse multi-microtubule assemblies form from a common tubulin “building block”. The results of our work are important for understanding the molecular basis of diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration, which are often directly linked to defects in microtubule network assembly.

Current projects in the lab build upon previous work by the Wieczorek Group, in which we resolved the structure of the gamma-tubulin ring complex (gamma-TuRC), a huge multiprotein assembly proposed to nucleate and organize microtubules in cells. We are interested in exploring the following open questions:

1. How does the gamma-TuRC regulate microtubule architecture?
2. How do gamma-TuRC co-factors interact with and regulate the various biochemical functions of the complex?
3. How are various microtubule networks properly established and regulated by the gamma-TuRC in conjunction with tubulin and other microtubule-associated proteins?

You will have the opportunity to explore these and other fundamental cell biological questions as the basis of their PhD project in the group.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly-motivated individual to investigate how the microtubule cytoskeleton is regulated by the gamma-TuRC. Potential project goals will include but are not limited to, using structural biology methods such as cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography, as well as single-molecule light microscopy such as Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (TIRF), to visualize components of the gamma-TuRC as the complex nucleates microtubules.

The group has access to state-of-the-art light and electron microscopy instrumentation, including a Nikon D-STORM equipped for TIRF microscopy and multiple Titan Krios EM scopes, all hosted and maintained at ETH Zurich’s imaging facility, ScopeM.

This is a fully-funded position for 4 years with an anticipated start date of June 1st, 2022 (negotiable). Further project details will be discussed in the interview.

• Research interest in cell biology, structural biology, biochemistry and/or biophysics
• Curiosity about the inner workings of the cell and a passion for basic science is a plus
• Experience with basic molecular biology, cell culture, and/or protein purification methods is a plus
• An MSc degree in biochemistry, cell biology, structural biology, biophysics, or disciplines related to the PhD position
• The writing of scientific papers and active participation in internal meetings and international conferences will require a good knowledge of English

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

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